If you follow the smartphone world, you might remember Jolla, the company behind Sailfish OS. This is a Linux-based operating system that first launched with the original Jolla Phone back in 2013. After years of quiet, Jolla is back with a brand-new handset, also called the Jolla Phone.
What makes it special is that it runs Sailfish OS 5, making it one of the very few smartphones that don’t use Android or iOS. For anyone tired of the two big platforms, this is a refreshing alternative.
Android Apps Are Still Supported
Switching away from Android or iOS can be a challenge, so Jolla made sure Sailfish OS 5 still supports many Android apps. The catch is there’s no Google Play, so you’ll need to download apps from third-party stores.
Privacy Comes First
One of the biggest reasons to choose Sailfish OS 5 is privacy. Jolla points out that with Android and iOS, your data, habits, and conversations can be processed and analyzed on someone else’s terms. With Sailfish OS, your data stays under your control.
This privacy focus also extends to the Jolla Phone hardware. It has a physical privacy switch that can disable the camera and microphone, so you know no one is listening or watching. You can also use the switch to disable other features, like Bluetooth or Android apps, giving you even more control over your device.
Unique Hardware Features
The new Jolla Phone also has some unusual hardware features. It includes a removable 5,500mAh battery, so you can replace it when it wears out or carry a spare for long days away from a charger.
Inside, the phone has a MediaTek 5G chipset, 12GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, a microSD card slot, and a replaceable back cover with multiple color options. The display is a 6.36-inch Full HD AMOLED screen, and the camera setup includes a 50MP wide lens and a 13MP ultra-wide lens. The fingerprint sensor is built into the power button.
Pricing and Availability
The Jolla Phone comes with mid-range specs list and a matching price. Pre-orders are currently €499, which is roughly $580 / £435 / AU$875. The retail price isn’t confirmed yet, but is expected to be €100-€200 higher.
Right now, the Jolla Phone is only available in the UK and parts of Europe, keeping it a niche option. Pre-orders are open, but shipments aren’t expected until the first half of 2026.
For anyone looking for a unique smartphone that prioritizes privacy and offers features you rarely see in mainstream devices, the new Jolla Phone is an exciting option.
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